+DEV+ God and Weedy Impostors

Date: July 2, 2010 12:09 AM
Topic: +DEV+ God and Weedy Impostors

God and Weedy Impostors

"'Where did the weeds come from?' 'An enemy has done this,' he replied. The servants asked, 'Do you want us to pull them up?' 'No...you may root up the wheat with them...'" (Matthew 13:27b-29).
Scripture Focus: Matthew 13:24-29

Here's the devil's crafty plan: Plant impostors (weeds) among the body of Christ (wheat) and use them as instruments of deception; people who are loved and respected will more easily dupe others into ungodly thinking or behavior. It is easy for any of us to turn a blind eye or to spiritualize and excuse wrong when our love and loyalty are involved. Satan seeks to thwart the renewing of our minds to maintain control over our thoughts, slowing our maturation which would be deadly to him. This is one reason it is important to follow uncompromisingly the teachings of the Scriptures. Love for our friends should never alter the rule of God's Word over our own lives.

But neither must believers be judgmental and self-righteous. We're to love everyone, just not blindly! Love and approval are not synonymous.
I can love you and not agree with what you do;
I can share my concerns. Still, we're not "holy weeders." We could accidentally uproot wheat! Only God can perfectly judge anyone's heart.

Insight: The people in your life that seem a bit weedy need your love and your prayers, most of all. Pray for guidance.